Some SAND18 Stories

The Science and Nonduality 2018 conference in San Jose, CA was once again a fascinating and unique experience. I had time to catch up with many friends, meet others I’ve only known on-line, and make new ones. I was less recognized this year, probably because I shaved the beard.

Gender was a major theme during the event. I caught up with Francis Bennett, a spiritual teacher who is transitioning from male to female. I also saw Zhen Dao, a remarkable gender-fluid person forging a unique gender identity. Both were on the Divine Feminine panel discussion and touched on modern issues, including some I discussed in the Unbalanced Masculine. Zhen, a martial artist, shared the story of surrendering to the feminine when confronted by potential male violence. This despite their martial abilities.

Vaidhi and Anoo Nathan were generous hosts for Rick Archer and my second BATGAP interview, the APST founders discussion, and interviews with Sean Webb and Thomas Hubl. I hope to have pictures from those events soon. Rick is interviewing my SAND roommate Ishtar Ishaya while they’re in Sedona. My other expected roommate David Thomas brought his brother Terry and ended up staying with friends. He too is a BATGAPer.

Kimberley Braun, Rick Archer, David B

As last year, meetings in the halls were sometimes profound. Like watching Jac O’Keeffe break through someones mind constructs. Comedienne Sarah Taylor was a warm presence and Kimberly Braun a happiness dynamo. Conversations at meals could be excellent too, like breakfast with Sufi Kabir Helminski.

Also typically, some of the best talks were in the smallest rooms. We helped each other record our talks. Deep thanks to Kristin Kirk for recording mine (coming soon).

Sarah Taylor and Ishtar Ishaya

Rick was interviewed for a podcast on Radiant Love Now in our bedroom just before leaving the conference. That led to a second one with myself. More on that later too.
Davidya

Hi Joseph
It is remarkable but mixed. The energy of nearby Silicon Valley is very intense. At the conference, a lot of confused seekers, saturated by the divergent approaches. Most people have to take regular breaks.

But at the same time, it’s a wonderful chance to connect with people I’d not otherwise have met. And make a few choice discoveries.

The place is also expensive – $50US for a buffet meal? Thus I go when it makes financial sense. This year, a generous donor comped my room. But this happened late in the game so I was late submitting my talk proposal, leaving me with a short speaking time. But other stuff is spinning off the conference too.